Improve Rural Moroccan Schools: Sami's Project

On 20 January 2025, I had the honor and pleasure of participating in the 12th  annual Tree Planting Day, an inspiring event organized by the High Atlas Foundation (HAF).

This valued tradition brought together communities across Morocco to reaffirm our collective commitment to environmental sustainability.

The annual Tree Planting Day is not just a nationwide initiative; it is a testament to the power of collective action.

In regions all over Morocco, people of all ages—men, women, and children—gathered to plant trees, symbolizing unity and hope in the face of environmental challenges.

Knowing that a large number of individuals across the country were planting trees simultaneously was awe-inspiring.

It felt as though we were soldiers standing together in a war against climate change, each sapling planted a step closer to victory.

Trees play a pivotal role in maintaining life on Earth. They act as the lungs of our planet, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.

Scientifically, we know that trees help reduce air pollution, prevent soil erosion, and provide resources and habitats for wildlife.

Beyond their physical benefits, trees support local communities, offering shade, food, and livelihoods.

But their importance goes deeper than that. Trees also have spiritual and emotional significance. In Islam, planting trees is seen as an act of ongoing charity—rewarded as long as any living being benefits from it.

This adds a profound dimension to our actions, turning tree planting into a moral responsibility.

I share a unique connection with trees. Their presence reduces my stress, as though they absorb my worries and negative energy and replace it with positivity.

For me, walking through green spaces is a relief for the eyes and the soul. I cannot imagine living in a world without greenery—a world without trees would feel empty and lifeless.

Our planet is currently facing serious environmental challenges due to human activity. The effects of climate change—rising temperatures, extreme weather, and biodiversity loss—are becoming increasingly evident.

Trees are one of our greatest allies in combating these issues. They mitigate the impact of climate change by sequestering carbon and stabilizing ecosystems.

Yet, despite knowing how crucial the environment is for our survival, many of us continue to live carelessly, ignoring the state of our planet.

It is vital for all of us—every individual, every community—to take responsibility for protecting our shared home. Protecting the environment is not just about preserving nature; it’s about safeguarding our own future and well-being.

The tree-planting event had a profound impact on me. Standing alongside people from diverse backgrounds, united by a shared goal, I felt an overwhelming sense of purpose and hope.

Planting each tree was a reminder that small actions can lead to significant change. It was a joyful experience, knowing that these trees would benefit not just the environment but also the community and future generations.

I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to HAF for organizing this invaluable initiative and for giving me the chance to contribute.

Participating in this event has inspired me to continue planting trees wherever I go and to encourage others to do the same.

Your Role in a Greener World

You don’t need to wait for a large event to take action. Start small—plant a tree in your garden, in your neighborhood, or a nearby park.

Even small efforts, when multiplied by many, can create a ripple effect that leads to big changes. Each sapling planted is a step toward a healthier planet.

We are blessed with a beautiful world, a gift we must protect and cherish. Let’s work together to ensure that future generations inherit a planet full of life, beauty, and greenery. Join the movement. Plant a tree. Be the change.

On a quiet morning, I left Marrakech and traveled to Mohammedia. It was the annual Tree Planting Day, an important event for the High Atlas Foundation.

My goal was to help plant trees with a group of students at Institut Spécialisé de Technologie Appliquée in Mohammedia.

When I arrived, many students were already waiting. They were excited to take part. Before starting, the team gave a short lesson about planting trees.

Students learned why it is important, how to plant correctly, and how trees will help their community.

We started working together, planting small fruit trees like olives and almonds. For some students, it was the first time they worked with soil or held a shovel.

Everyone was eager to learn and help. The field quickly became busy with digging and planting.

As we worked, I noticed how students helped each other and shared ideas. It was not just about planting trees; it was about teamwork and learning something new.

By the end of the day, we planted many rows of trees that will grow to provide food and shade in the future.

On the ride back to Marrakech, I thought about how small actions like planting a tree can make a big difference. It felt good to be part of something that will help both the environment and the community.

Tree Planting Day showed me the power of simple actions and teamwork to create change.